Buttner to Fulham back on after Southampton deal falls through

The agent of Vitesse Arnhem full-back Alexander Buttner has claimed that Fulham are "very serious" with their reported interest in his client, suggesting a deal could well be imminent.

The defender, who has been strongly linked with Fulham over the course of the summer, was known to be keen on joining Southampton and a deal between both Saints and Vitesse appeared firmly in place just over a week ago. However, despite Buttner's assertions that St Mary's was his preferred destination, the transfer broke down after interference from a third party.

This has re-opened the door for Martin Jol, who sees the defender as a perfect acquisition. The Dutchman had a bid rejected before the Saints interest came to light but, with these latest revelations, another offer could be on the cards from Fulham.

"At the end, we didn't come to a deal with Southampton and Vitesse," Alexander Busac, the player's representative, told De Telegraaf. "We look ahead and happily there is a lot of interest.

"Hannover and Fulham are very serious.

"Two French clubs have confirmed by mail they are looking to sign Buttner, but haven't made a bid. Within the next [few] days they will contact Vitesse."